The Subaru Forester is a compact all-wheel-drive crossover SUV with seating for five. Similar in size to the Honda CR-V the Forester has more than enough passenger room and cargo volume to suit a small family. Standard all-wheel-drive adds an extra measure of security in bad weather. The standard four-cylinder boxer engine produces 170-bhp and is now mated to a fuel-efficient CVT transmission. The range also includes a performance-oriented XT model with an additional 80 horsepower and a six-speed automatic transmission. A higher-performance turbocharged model version of the 2.5l four cylinder is included in the Forester XT models. The Forester is well equipped from the Premium trim level and above.

Subaru's compact SUV is all-new for the 2014 model year. The 2014 Forester is largely the same size as its predecessor, the new model gains about an inch in wheelbase and length and about a half-inch in width and height. The new styling retains the same side profile, but gains more aggressive front-end styling. Most models retain the same 250-bhp, 2.5l horizontal four-cylinder as before. The performance-oriented XT models now include a more powerful 2.0l turbocharged horizontal four-cylinder engine. The four-speed automatic has been dropped in favor of a CVT transmission, and the base model now offers a six-speed manual. Subaru projects improved fuel economy with CVT equipped models rated at 24/32 (city/hwy).